Amakhosi have had two of their proposals for Velebayi rejected by the Urban Warriors, who maintain that their player holds greater value. They also hope to reap the rewards of developing him.
Velebayi was one of the key figures for the side that got relegated at the end of the last season. He scored one goal and provided one assist in 24 matches he featured in all competitions. He earned a call-up to the Bafana Bafana squad that played COSAFA Cup last month in Gqeberha.
His performances attracted interest from several clubs, including Kaizer Chiefs, who are keen to add him to their squad ahead of the new Betway Premiership campaign.
Esftathiou insisted the Western Cape side developed a diamond in Velebayi, saying if Amakhosi don’t afford, they must step back. According to the reports, any club that wants the winger should fork out R10 million.
WHAT DID CAPE TOWN SPURS CEO SAID ABOUT CHIEFS REGARDING VELEBAYI
“We priced him [Velebayi] fairly. We did tell them what is it that we are looking for like we do with any other party, and they came back with another offer where you either agree or disagree, and I think that’s where we are,” Esftathiou said on Metro FM.
“So what they are offering isn’t close to what we are asking for, and I don’t want to accuse anyone of anything. But when we’re having club-to-club conversations, we need to keep that confidential. Somehow, this information seems to be leaking out, and I don’t know where it’s coming out.
“We know our business model and developing a player through the ranks for 10 years is not a cheap business; Asanele Velebayi has played 99 games at the age of 21. We believe he is a diamond, if people can’t afford the diamond then they shouldn’t buy it.”
